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February 10, 2025

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Summer Camp Planning Timeline

Summer Camp Planning Timeline

It’s that time of year again: time to book kids into summer camps now. We can help you with the A - to - Z of it!

In cold winter months, it’s hard to imagine that summer will ever return. But, planning and organizing the summer calendar for yourself and your kids is an essential winter activity! This is especially true if you plan to send your child to one or more summer camps. Summer camps start filling up in March, which means that families start researching and planning in January and February, according to the American Camp Association (ACA). 

    If you are looking to sign your child up for camp this summer, understanding the typical summer camp planning timeline matters. So too does knowing how to research camps. While many parents reserve camp session spots two-to-three months in advance, they first spend one-to-two months doing research and organizing their summer plans.

Research Camps Now

Use these tips to help you as you research summer camps for your child, seeking camps that are accredited, verified, and perfect for your child.

Look at reviews. Have other kids like yours enjoyed the camp before? Reviews are a great place to start when you are deciding on a camp for your child. See what other families have enjoyed about their experience and see if they have any suggestions for the future. Peer comments are one of the best ways to determine if the camp is right for your child.

Continue your due diligence by checking out the camp’s website, which should have information about the owners, directors, and staff. 

Ask questions. Asking questions is a great way to speak with the camp owner or director and get an understanding of the camp’s philosophy, safety measures, training procedures, and more. 

Head to Nashville Parent’s Summer Camp Adventure Fair on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Cool Springs Galleria to meet one-on-one with camp directors!

Match the Camp to Your Child

One of the best ways to find the right summer camp for your child is to talk with them to see what they are interested in. Is your child into art or science? Does your child love to be outside exploring? Does she want to be in a show? Ask your kids what kind of activities and experiences they want during the summer, then find camps that fit those requests. Be sure to find out what your child’s friends are doing. Signing up with a friend can help them get more comfortable. While you want your child to make new friends at camp, having a buddy can help break the ice. 

    Try to choose a camp that is right for your child, not based on their age or what others are doing. For example, some young children are ready for longer day camps or even sleep-away camps before older children. Just because your child is a certain age, it does not mean she is ready. You know your child best: choose the type of summer camp that will help them succeed.

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About the Author

Janie Snyderman

Janie Snyderman is a mom and a freelance writer.